United and City go head-to-head at Old Trafford tomorrow night (Wednesday, 7.45pm kick-off).
There have been a few changes to the EFL Cup format this season, partly due to the revised fixture schedule as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Here’s all you need to know…
Semi-finals
In the past the semi-finals of this competition have been two-legged affairs.
However this season, the last-four ties will be played as one-off matches, due to the coronavirus pandemic and a more congested fixture schedule.
Unlike the FA Cup, neutral venues will not be used, with the ties taking place at the venue of the club drawn out first.
Extra-time and penalties
It was decided that in the first five rounds of this season’s competition, any ties ending in a draw after 90 minutes would go straight to a penalty shoot-out, with no extra-time.
However, in the semi-finals and final, extra-time will be used if the sides cannot be separated after 90 minutes.
The traditional 30-minute period would then be played and followed, if needed, by a penalty shoot-out.
Substitutes
Ahead of the semi-final ties, the EFL announced that teams would be allowed to make up to five substitutions.
Previously, only three would have been permitted (plus an additional fourth in extra-time if required).
The EFL said in a statement: “Following consultation with the four clubs remaining in the competition, nine substitutes can now be named in the matchday squad, with five permitted to take to the pitch during the 90 minutes and extra time if applicable.
“Each team is only permitted a maximum of three opportunities (excluding half time, full time and half time of extra time) to make substitutions during normal time.
“However, if a tie goes to extra time, an additional opportunity to use a substitute(s) will also be permitted but only from the five substitutes allowed.”
VAR
Video assistant referees (VAR) were not available in earlier rounds – but will be used in the semi-finals and final.
Final
The final was recently rescheduled from February to April.
It had been due to be played on February 28 but has been moved back to Sunday, April 25, 2021.
Explaining the decision, the EFL said in a statement: “It is the objective of the League to stage the Final with as many supporters in attendance as possible and the decision has therefore been taken to move the Final from its original date of Sunday 28 February 2021 to later in the year.
“The number of fans permitted will be dependent on Government guidance in place at the time and it is hoped that moving the date to later in the year will give clubs and their fans the best opportunity to attend in person.”
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